Motorists suspected of being drunk behind the wheel will soon have to undergo an American style sobriety test, including walking in a straight line, with the results being admissible in evidence. The move is just one of a raft of changes to the penalty points system part of the Road Traffic (No 2) Bill 2013, aimed at curbing the recent increase in deaths on Irish roads.
Set to be introduced next year (2014), the Bill introduces 11 new offences including the banning of illegal U-turns and increased penalties for 15 other offences, including use of a mobile phone, non-wearing of seatbelts (both for adults and guardians of minors who are not belted) and failure to display an NCT certificate. The penalty for speeding will also increase to three points, bringing it in line with the system used in Northern Ireland - paving the way for cross border recognition of speeding points.
Also included in the Bill is the introduction of an 'N' or novice plate for drivers who have recently passed their driving test, and the lowering of the number of penalty points such drivers need to accrue before being put off the road.
Learner drivers - distinct from the new Novice drivers in that they have not yet sat a driving test - will also be obliged to accrue a certain amount of logged and recorded driving experience with a qualified motorist before they are allowed to sit their test. This measure is on top of the existing obligation to a minimum of 12 lessons with an accredited driving instructor. Failure to display 'L' or 'N' plates while driving will incur two penalty points - or four if the case goes to court.
In addition to the sobriety test for suspected drink drivers, Gardaí will also be able to test unconscious drivers involved in accidents. The Bill allows for a blood sample to be taken but it can only be certified once the driver in question later gives permission.